The advent of artificial intelligence and Large Language Models (LLMs) has ushered in a new era of productivity and efficiency, or at least the possiblity of it. As we stand on the brink of the most significant changes for white collar workers in many years, it's essential to understand how businesses can leverage AI to enhance their operations without the immediate need to develop proprietary foundation models. 
For most companies, the short-term or even long-term, goal should not be to create their own AI/LLM models. Instead, the pragmatic approach lies in utilizing existing models crafted by tech giants. This initial wave of AI transformation, particularly aimed at boosting personal productivity, is best navigated through services offered by the likes of Microsoft and Google. Features like Microsoft Copilot and Google Gemini present businesses with an opportunity to harness AI's power while seamlessly integrating into existing workflows.
Consider the mundane yet crucial task of summarizing meetings or drafting standardized emails. Tools such as Microsoft Teams and Copilot can transform these tedious chores into more efficient processes, thereby unlocking significant practical value for average office workers. By streamlining such tasks, AI not only improves productivity but also allows employees to focus on more strategic or value creating activities.
Moreover, the rise of coding assistants like GitHub Copilot illustrates the benefits of AI for development. These tools aid in automating repetitive tasks, generating boilerplate code, and suggesting solutions to technical problems. Though they act more as assistants than standalone developers, their impact on personal productivity and problem-solving cannot be overstated.
It's important to note that the AI revolution, especially with LLMs, is still in its infancy, having started for real just over a year ago. Yet, the pace of change is relentless. The coming years are expected to bring about not only incremental improvements but also significant leaps that will redefine how we work. Understanding how to leverage LLMs and AI within current constraints is crucial. The more adept individuals and businesses become at integrating these technologies into their daily operations, the better positioned they will be to navigate the forthcoming shifts.
However, this rapid adoption is not uniform across the globe. European entities have been slower to embrace AI compared to their American counterparts, a trend that is likely to persist. But regardless of geographic location, the impact of AI on job efficiency and productivity will ultimately increase the standards and output expected of workers everywhere.
As a consultant, I anticipate a shift towards fixed-price models and a greater emphasis on deliverables over billable hours. This transition reflects a broader move towards efficiency and output, driven by the end of the ZIRP era.
In conclusion, while the future of AI and its impact on various professions remains uncertain, one thing is clear: preparation is key. By understanding and integrating current AI technologies, individuals and businesses can ensure they remain competitive and resilient in the face of inevitable change. As we continue to explore and adapt to new developments, it is vital to keep up to date on how they can enhance our work and our lives.
Patrik
patrik[at]chrono.se